UVF “supergrass” Robert Stewart was yesterday temporarily excused from giving evidence after a psychiatrist recommended that he not take the witness box.
While Mr Stewart told the court he felt okay to continue, Gordon Kerr QC, prosecuting, raised concerns due to his “complexion and demeanour” and the trial was adjourned to allow him to be examined by a psychiatrist.
Consultant psychiatrist Dr Ian Bownes came to the court and examined Mr Stewart and Diplock trial judge Mr Justice Gillen was told the doctor recommended that Mr Stewart not continue but be allowed to come back on Monday morning.
The doctor also recommended that Mr Stewart only give evidence four days a week with 20-minute breaks interposed in his testimony.
Mr Stewart is giving evidence against 14 alleged UVF men, nine of whom are accused of murdering rival UDA chief Tommy English, for the fourth week but it is the third time he has not been well enough to take the stand.